Francona says he won't manage in 2012

Former Red Sox manager Terry Francona, passed over by the Cardinals this week, said he does not plan to manage in 2012. Speaking with CSNNE's Sean McAdam Wednesday, Francona said: "I'm not going to try to manage next year, for my benefit.

Francona and the Red Sox parted ways last month following the team's September collapse. There had been speculation that he would land with the Cubs or Cardinals, but St. Louis hired Mike Matheny to replace Tony La Russa.

"When I interviewed in St. Louis, I was genuinely excited about it," Francona said. "St. Louis was such an exciting opportunity. But we were all beaten up at the end of the year, and after [interviewing] I took a step back and began to look at things realistically."

The Cubs, meanwhile, have yet to name a manager to serve under new team president Theo Epstein, but it's become clear that Francona won't be the choice.

"I've talked to Theo numerous times," Francona said. "We both know each other well enough where we can can be honest with each other. I don't think it's the right opportunity.

"I need to take a step back and re-energize. That's probably in my best interest right now. In fairness to myself, it's the best thing to do."

Francona did some color commentating for Fox during the American League Championship Series and was well-received, and there have been reports of networks having interest in him serving in that role next year.

"I'm going to explore some things in broadcasting and see where it leads," he said. "It may be a way to stay in the game, enjoy it and also be able to step back and look at things."

However, Francona made it clear that he wants to end up back on the field eventually.

"Not going to spring training will certainly be a huge void, but I guess I'm glad," he said. "I want to get myself re-energized and if and when an opportunity arises [to manage again], I'll be ready."

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